Grace C. Chang - Santa Barbara Hikes

Distance (R-T): 9-10 miles
Elevation gain: 2300 feet
Difficulty: Very strenuous - kicks my ass!

This trail starts at the same place as Inspiration Point and Tunnel Trail. After the paved road ends, there are two possible ways to hike to Cathedral Peak: the "frontal assault", or "ridge walking". The traditional way is ridge walking. After the road turns to dirt, stay on it until you see a single-track trail on your left. Take it. This is the same trail that you take to both Seven Falls and Inspiration Point. When you reach the major creek crossing, take a right and head up the creek. Eventually, you will see a small trail on your left that looks extremely steep. It is. We call this the elevator, for obvious reasons. If you can get through that (you'll end up pulling yourself up using your arms and the small chaparral - your arms will get as sore as your legs), you'll eventually reach large sandstone rocks (gorgeous!) and be right along the ridge. Follow the ridge up and you'll see the summit. A sign-in book at the top gives us a sense of accomplishment. The other way is somewhat of a secret, so I won't say anything about it here. What I will say is that both ways are very strenuous. There isn't much in the way of shade either, but there are beautiful views all the way up and of course, once you get there. It is also possible to continue up over Cathedral Peak up to La Cumbre Peak (this is serious kicks my ass! ratings).

Driving directions (from the 101): Take the Mission Exit and drive toward the mountains. When the road ends at Roosevelt School, take a left at the stop sign onto Laguna Road. Take a right in front of the Mission onto Los Olivos Road. At the fork in the road, veer left onto Mission Canyon Road. At the stop sign, take a right onto the 192. After a short block, at the fire station, take the left fork onto Tunnel Road. Stay left. This road will take you up through switchbacks and through a lovely neighborhood. Eventually, the road ends at a private drive. Park on the right (if you can find a spot!) and be careful to stay within the signs. They do ticket up here. The trailhead is up to the right.

Also see Inspiration Point, Tunnel, or Seven Falls.

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